Debra K

5
5.0 (10)

Instruments: Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues

Where I Teach:

In Your Home My Studio

Ages Taught: 5-80

Levels Taught:

EMAIL US OR CALL 877-687-4524

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ABOUT

Degrees / Training / Special Info:

MM, Jazz Saxophone, Manhattan School of Music BM, Saxophone Performance/Music Education

Awards:

2014-Music Education Specialist, Education Committee, Millay Artist Colony

2013-Featured soloist with Bronx Conexion Latin Jazz Big Band

2012-Selected as one of 25 Arts Education Professionals to attend the National Guild for Community Arts Education Leadership Institute

2004-Present - Tours in Europe, Canada and the U.S.

4 Years of Eastman School of Music Merit Scholarships

Overview:

I am a passionate musician and educator who is dedicated to helping students not only learn to play their instrument but to become a well-rounded musician. I love working with students of all ages and sharing my experience and love of classical, jazz and world music styles. I graduated from the Eastman School of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree in Saxophone Performance and Music Education, and went on to receive a Master of Music degree in Jazz Saxophone Performance from Manhattan School of Music. Performing all over the U.S. and abroad has been one of the highlights of my life as a musician. I lead my own jazz trio, perform as a featured saxophonist and clarinetist of several award-winning ensembles, and I look forward to sharing my love of many styles of music with my students.

EXPERIENCE

I have been teaching woodwind students of all ages for more than 10 years, in a variety of settings from public and private schools, individual and small group lessons and concert band and jazz ensembles. I believe that private lessons are a partnership between the teacher and student, and have found that students thrive when they are inspired by their lessons and experience the success of mastering a fun, new piece of music. Cultivating a regular practice schedule is the key to this success and I help students learn how to practice so that they feel confident to play in ensembles, perform in recitals and have as much fun as possible playing music, because to me, that is the ultimate goal.

METHODS USED

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with either the Rubank Elementary Method or Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, as I find these provide a strong foundation in proper technique and sound, and reading music. As we move through this method, I will introduce exercises to help the student further develop a good sound on their instrument. At the same time, we will also begin to play solo and duet repertoire. I enjoy playing with students as a way to help them hear proper sound and technique and also develop listening and ensemble skills. For adults, I tailor the lessons to more specific styles of music they may be interested in learning, while also developing sound and technique according to their ability level.

LESSON STYLE

My greatest joy as a teacher is seeing students fall in love with music and find great joy and fulfillment playing their instruments! I pay close attention to the student's experience and tailor lesson content and goals to match individual needs and learning styles. I aim to cultivate an atmosphere of encouragement, commitment, inspiration and motivation that keeps students wanting to spend quality time with their instrument and learn to play the music that they most enjoy.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

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RATING & REVIEWS

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Yuji Sudo

Debra taught me enthusiastically, reflecting my playing ability. Her explanation and sample performance was persuasive for me(Japanese), with clear English and perfect playing. I could enjoy so much plaing the saxophone with her.

Steve Newman

My daughter began learning sax in her school band, but she didn't begin PLAYING sax until she started lessons with Debra. From scales and exercises to actual pieces, Debra coached my daughter with real insight, sensitivity, and patience. Her knowledge of the instrument and feeling for music - along with her easy-going,"kid friendly" personality - make Debra the ideal teacher and musical mentor.

Hombelineduteil

My daughter is a beginner and loves her saxophone teacher! Debra is focused and fun at the same time. She uses my daughter's enthusiasm for this new instrument to get her practise and make some progress. We love Debra's personality and it's a pleasure working with her.

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